Veterinary CT Scans

A CT scan is typically recommended for pets in cases where a more detailed view of their internal structures is needed. Here are some common situations when our veterinarian might suggest a CT scan:

• Neurological Issues - If your pet is experiencing seizures, balance problems, or sudden behavioral changes, a CT scan can help detect brain tumors, inflammation, or trauma.
• Orthopedic Conditions - Useful for evaluating complex fractures, joint problems, or bone tumors, especially when X-rays don’t provide enough detail.
• Cancer Diagnosis & Staging - Helps detect tumors, determine their size, and check if cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
• Nasal & Sinus Disorders - If your pet has chronic nasal discharge, sneezing, or difficulty breathing, a CT scan can identify nasal tumors, infections, or polyps.
• Dental & Skull Abnormalities - Used for pets with jaw pain, facial swelling, or suspected dental abscesses that may involve deeper structures.
• Lung & Chest Issues - Can help diagnose lung diseases, pneumonia, or fluid buildup in the chest.
• Abdominal Problems - If a pet has persistent vomiting, unexplained weight loss, or internal bleeding, a CT scan can identify tumors, organ abnormalities, or blockages.

A CT (computed tomography) scan can be incredibly beneficial for diagnosing and treating health conditions in pets. Here are some key advantages:

• Detailed Imaging
  • CT scans provide high-resolution, cross-sectional images of your pet’s body, allowing for a more detailed view than traditional X-rays.
• Early and Accurate Diagnosis
  • They help detect conditions that might not be visible on X-rays or ultrasounds, such as small tumors, fractures, or internal injuries.
• Better Evaluation of Soft Tissues
  • CT scans are excellent for assessing soft tissues like the brain, lungs, and abdominal organs, making them useful for diagnosing neurological, respiratory, and digestive issues.
• Planning for Surgery or Treatment
  • If your pet needs surgery, a CT scan can help veterinarians plan procedures more precisely by mapping out the exact location of abnormalities.
• Less Invasive
  • Compared to exploratory surgery, a CT scan is a non-invasive way to gather crucial diagnostic information.
• Faster Results
  • CT scans are quick, usually taking only a few minutes, which is especially beneficial for pets that may be in pain or distress.

If your pet is scheduled for a CT scan, here’s what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure:

Before the CT Scan:

• Fasting: Your veterinarian may ask you to withhold food for 6-12 hours before the scan, especially if sedation or anesthesia is required. Water is usually allowed.
• Pre-Scan Evaluation: Your vet might perform blood tests to ensure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia or sedation.
• Sedation/Anesthesia: Since pets need to remain completely still during the scan, they are typically given sedation or general anesthesia.

During the CT Scan:

• Positioning: Your pet will be placed on a specialized table that moves through the CT scanner.
• Imaging Process: The scanner will take multiple detailed cross-sectional images of the area being examined. This usually takes just a few minutes.
• Contrast Dye (If Needed): In some cases, an intravenous (IV) contrast dye is administered to highlight specific organs or blood vessels.

After the CT Scan:

• Recovery from Sedation: Your pet will be monitored as they wake up from sedation/anesthesia. Most pets recover within a few hours.
• Results & Diagnosis: A veterinary radiologist will analyze the images and send a report to your vet, who will then discuss the findings with you.
• Next Steps: Based on the results, your vet may recommend further testing, treatment, or surgery if needed.